Same sex marriage debate: How Barton, Scunthorpe and Brigg MPs voted

PLANS to legalise marriage for same-sex couples have been supported by two of North Lincolnshire's three MPs.

The Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Bill was voted on in Parliament, with the majority of MPs supporting it.

If it becomes law, the bill would enable gay and lesbian couples to get married in civil and religious ceremonies where institutions consent.

Scunthorpe MP Nic Dakin and Brigg and Goole's Andrew Percy were among the 400 to back the plans in the House of Commons vote. Barton MP Martin Vickers opposed it. The result indicates MPs approve of the proposed legislation in principle. It will now be subject to scrutiny in Parliament.

Mr Dakin said: "For me, it came down to a decision on whether marriage is only available for a man and a woman, or in the 21st century, should it be available to any two people willing to make a life-long commitment to each other."

Mr Percy said: "Had there been any doubt that churches which did not wish to perform marriages would be forced to, then I would not have supported it. However, I can't find any argument against allowing two people who are in love to be allowed to marry in churches or religious institutions that want to marry them."

Mr Vickers said his vote reflected the views of constituents who had contacted him about the issue.

He added: "It should only be proceeded with if it has been approved by the electorate after a manifesto commitment.

Julian Corlett, 58, of Scunthorpe, who is openly gay and spent 20 years campaigning for gay rights, said: "I don't knock the concept but the waters have been muddied around the way it has been introduced.

"I am not persuaded there has been a clamour for it.

"I personally think there are bigger and more important issues, such as the economy, unemployment and protecting the NHS and public services."